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Nappanee, Indiana: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!

Nappanee is Amish country, and the craft is the whole reason to come out. Coppes Commons is an old cabinet factory turned into over 60 separate shops. The Barns and Amish Acres between them cover the rest of the making. The quilt shops and the sculptors are what people actually remember afterwards. Come for the hands rather than for the scenery and this town works.

Welcome to Nappanee, Indiana, a city that runs far more than its size suggests. Whether you read history, came to eat, came to shop or came for the art, Nappanee covers it. This city is known for its history, the country around it and people who talk to you. In this article we will work through the things worth doing and the places worth seeing in Nappanee, Indiana.

If old buildings are the reason you travel, Nappanee is where to go. The city holds several historic sites, the Round Barn Theatre among them, which sits at Amish Acres. You can also take the Coppes Commons, a former factory now running as a mini-mall, and the Nappanee Heritage Center, which carries the city’s history and culture.

Whether you live here or you are passing through, Nappanee has something for you. So put the walking shoes on and get into it. Here are the things worth doing and the places worth seeing in Nappanee, Indiana.

Key Takeaways

• Nappanee, Indiana is a vibrant city that offers a plethora of activities for all ages.
• The city is known for its rich history, beautiful countryside, and friendly community.
• Nappanee has something for everyone, including historic marvels, feasting, shopping, art and craft, and fun things to do.

The Vibrant City of Nappanee, Indiana

Welcome to Nappanee, Indiana. A city with more going on than the map suggests. Whether you live here or you are visiting, there is plenty to do and plenty to see in Nappanee.

Start with the basics. Nappanee is a small town in Elkhart County. Do not let the size decide it for you. This city has a character of its own, with locals who talk to you, food worth the trip and attractions you will not find repeated elsewhere.

If you read history, you will want the century-old craftsmanship and farming heritage at The Barns at Nappanee. It is the shortest route into the Amish way of life and into patterns of living that the rest of the country has largely dropped.

Want something with more going on? Take The Round Barn Theatre at Amish Acres. This theater runs some of the better theatrical work in the area and the building carries it.

If you came to eat, the local cooking in Nappanee is the reason to stay. And between the boutiques and the antiques, the shopping holds up as well. When you are done, stop at one of the restaurants or bakeries and eat properly.

And if you want the outdoor version, head to the Nappanee Art Path. This path was put together by the Nappanee Art Council and runs murals and art installations along its whole length.

In conclusion, Nappanee, Indiana carries more than its size suggests. Whether you read history, came to eat or follow art, this city covers it. So pack the bags, take some friends and give Nappanee the days it repays.

Historic Marvels in Nappanee

If you read history, Nappanee holds enough old buildings to fill a day. From the architecture to the odder attractions, this town keeps turning up things you did not expect.

Historic Buildings

Nappanee carries a real history and the architecture proves it. There are historic buildings across this town worth the walk. Many of them have been restored and kept, which means you get the town’s past standing rather than described.

Coppes Commons

The most unusual historic building in Nappanee is Coppes Commons. This old factory has been turned into a mini-mall running over 60 shops and businesses. You get everything from antiques to handmade work to proper food. It is where an afternoon goes without you noticing.

Amish Acres

Amish Acres is the other historic piece in Nappanee. This 80-acre farm has become a living museum of the Amish way of life. You can take a guided tour of the farm, walk the historic buildings and eat a traditional Amish meal at the restaurant. It is the closest most visitors get to a culture that has kept its own terms.

The Barns at Nappanee

The Barns at Nappanee are the ones to take if old buildings are your subject. These barns went up in the early 20th century and have been restored properly. They now hold shops and businesses, a furniture store, a bakery and a coffee shop among them. You shop, you sit down, and you get the history for nothing.

Whether it is history, architecture or simply something you have not seen before, Nappanee has it. So take the camera, put the walking shoes on and work through this town’s older half. You won’t be disappointed.

Feasting in Nappanee

On food, Nappanee delivers. From classic Amish cooking to the modern end, something here will suit. Here are a few places to take:

Dutch Village Market

If you want fresh produce, homemade baking and gifts nobody else stocks, take the Dutch Village Market. This market is the local pick and runs a long list of Amish-made products. You can pick up fresh flowers while you are in there. And take their famous apple butter, which is the thing people order twice.

Antique Shops

If antiques are your subject, Nappanee is where you go. With several antique shops in town, you will have the time and the choice to find something. From vintage furniture to rare collectibles, the range is wide. And you may well turn up something worth considerably more than it is priced at. Bring your bargaining, because you never know what is possible.

So whether you want fresh produce or one-of-a-kind antiques, Nappanee covers it. Come hungry and give yourself the time.

Shopping Spree in Nappanee

Ready to spend some money? Nappanee has the shops for it. From boutiques to antique stores, everything you came for is here. Here are two sub-sections to work through the shopping in Nappanee:

Downtown Nappanee

Downtown Nappanee is built for a slow walk. You get clothing boutiques, gift shops and home decor stores along the same run. If you want clothes, take The Nappanee Boutique. They carry the sort of thing you will not see on everybody else. For gifts, stop at the Nappanee Emporium, which runs everything from handmade soaps to vintage toys.

Antique Stores

If antiques are your thing, you’re in luck. Nappanee runs several antique stores worth the time. Dutch Lady Antiques is the one to take first. They hold over 40 vendors, so something in there will catch you. From vintage furniture to antique jewelry, they have it. The other one is the Nappanee Antique Mall, with over 20,000 square feet to work through.

So looking or actually buying, the shopping in Nappanee holds up either way. Happy shopping.

Art and Craft in Nappanee

Nappanee is where things get made, and anybody who works with their hands will find their people here. From quilting to sculpture, the range is real.

Quilting

If you quilt, Nappanee is the town. It holds several quilt shops running fabrics, patterns and supplies. Starting out or years into it, everything you need is here.

The quilt shop people name in Nappanee is the Dutch Village Market. They carry a serious range of fabric, traditional Amish prints among it. The shop also runs quilting classes at every level, so you leave knowing something new.

Sculptures

If sculpture is more your subject, Nappanee will not disappoint. The town holds several artists working in a range of materials.

The best-known sculptor in Nappanee is David Klamen. His work stands in public spaces across the town, the Nappanee Public Library and the Nappanee Center among them.

The other sculptor working in Nappanee is Michael Shantz. His work is known for the detail in it and for how alive the pieces read. You can see his sculptures at the Shantz Haus Gallery in downtown Nappanee.

In conclusion, if you make things or you like watching things being made, Nappanee is the town. Whether it is quilting or sculpture, there is plenty here to work through. So pack the bags, take the supplies and see what comes out of it.

Fun Things to Do in Nappanee

Looking for a day out in Nappanee? You’re in luck. This small town runs plenty. Here are the things worth putting on the plan.

Nappanee Raceway

If you follow racing, head to the Nappanee Raceway. This track runs harness races from May through October each year. And children under ten get in for nothing, which makes it the easy call with the family.

Round Barn Theater

For a slower evening, take the Round Barn Theater. This theater sits at Amish Acres and runs shows through the year. From musicals to comedies, something will suit. And with luck you will catch sight of the resident ghost, Sarah.

Live Music

If you want live music, Nappanee has it. The town runs several venues booking local bands and musicians. Check the schedule at The Nappanee Apple Festival or The Nappanee Summer Nights Concert Series for what is coming.

Yearly Events

On festivals, Nappanee runs plenty. From the Apple Festival to the Nappanee Power from the Past, something is always on. And if you eat pie, do not miss the 7-foot apple pie at the Apple Festival. It is worth the drive on its own.

So there it is, a few of the things worth doing in Nappanee. Whether it is racing, theater, music or festivals, this town covers it.

The Coppes family built kitchen cabinets in this town for decades on end. That factory is now Coppes Commons, with the shops set inside the shell. The Barns were added afterwards as an events venue standing right beside it. Amish Acres was a working farm for years before it became a museum. Almost nothing in this town was ever built to be a tourist attraction.

Nature’s Lap in Nappanee

If you want out of the traffic, Nappanee runs real country. Here are the places to take:

Pumpkinvine Nature Trail

The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail runs 25 miles through Nappanee and the country around it. Whether you walk seriously or you just want an hour out, the trail works either way. You pass through forest, fields and wetland, and cross a few bridges along the way. Watch for the wildlife living along it, deer, foxes and a long list of bird species.

McCormick Creek Golf Course

If you want the outdoors and a round of golf in the same day, take McCormick Creek Golf Course. This 18-hole course sits in the rolling country around Nappanee with the ground opening up around you. Watch for the local wildlife out there, deer and various bird species among it.

Parks

Nappanee runs several parks and each has its own character. Walk East Park for the pond and the planting. Head to West Park for a picnic or a game of frisbee on the open lawn. And if you want the rougher version, take the Nappanee Conservation Club, which runs hiking trails, fishing and a shooting range.

Wildlife

Nappanee holds a real range of wildlife, from deer and foxes to a long list of bird species. Watch for them while you are working through the country here. And if you want the close version, head to the Nappanee Apple Festival in September, where there are live demonstrations of birds of prey and farm animals you can get near.

In Nappanee the country is never far off. So take the boots or the golf clubs and get out into it.

Planning Your Trip to Nappanee

So you have decided on Nappanee, Indiana? Good choice. You’re in for a treat. But before you pack the bags and set off, a few things are worth knowing to get the trip right.

Plan Your Trip

First things first, plan your trip. Nappanee is a small town, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to see and do. Check out the Visit Nappanee website to get an idea of what the town has to offer. You can also find information on events, dining options, and accommodations.

Stay

Speaking of accommodations, where are you going to stay? Nappanee has a few options, including the charming Amish Inn and the cozy Nappanee Inn. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even stay in a yurt at Amish Acres.

Visitors

As a visitor, you’ll want to make the most of your time in Nappanee. Be sure to check out the top-rated attractions on TripAdvisor. The Coppes Commons is a must-see, with its unique shops and historic charm. And of course, you can’t miss the Round Barn Theatre at Amish Acres, which offers top-notch entertainment in a beautiful setting.

With those in hand, you’re ready to plan the trip to Nappanee. Now go and take what this small town actually runs.

Community Life in Nappanee

Nappanee is a small town that punches above it. The community here is friendly, open and quick to help. Whether you live here or you are visiting, there are plenty of ways to get involved and see what Nappanee is actually like.

Nappanee Public Library

If you read, or you just want somewhere quiet to work, the Nappanee Public Library is the place. With a long selection of books, magazines and online resources, you will find your own thing. Plus they run programs and events at every age, from storytime for the small ones to book clubs for adults.

Wa-Nee Community Schools

Nappanee holds the Wa-Nee Community Schools, which serve the area around it. The schools are known for their academic programs, their teachers and the community behind them. Student, parent or simply interested in education, Wa-Nee is worth knowing about.

Local Service Organizations

Nappanee runs a set of local service organizations, the Lions Club, Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club among them. These groups exist to do something useful for the town through volunteer work and fundraising. If you want to get involved and make a difference, joining one is the shortest route in.

Youth Sports Clubs

If you have children, or you follow sport yourself, Nappanee runs plenty of youth sports clubs. Whether your child plays basketball, soccer, baseball or something else, there is a club for them. Those clubs keep children active and teach teamwork, sportsmanship and how to keep going, which lasts longer than the season does.

In summary, Nappanee runs a real community with plenty of ways into it. Whether education, volunteering or sport is your thing, all three are covered. So get involved and see what Nappanee is actually made of.

Special Events in Nappanee

Nappanee is a town that turns out for itself, and the events are how it does that. Nappanee runs a long calendar you should not drive past. Here are two of the biggest:

Apple Festival

Do you like apples? Of course you do. Nobody turns down a good one. Which is why the Apple Festival in Nappanee earns the trip. It runs every year, and it is how the fall gets marked here.

At the Apple Festival, everything comes back to apples. There are apple pies, apple dumplings, apple cider and apple butter. And if you compete, there is the apple pie baking contest. You may well win it.

But the Apple Festival is not only the food. There is plenty here for the whole family. You can ride the apple train, take the live music or watch the parade. And if you want the view, there is a hot air balloon ride.

Community Calendar

Nappanee is a close community and something is always running. Which is why the community calendar is worth checking. That calendar carries events open to everybody, and it is the shortest way into the town.

From art shows to charity events, something is always on in Nappanee. And if you want to put something back, there are volunteer opportunities on offer. You can help at the local food bank, join a clean-up, or coach a youth sports team.

So the next time you want something to do in Nappanee, take the community calendar. You never know what is coming up.

Volunteering in Nappanee

Want to put something back while you enjoy yourself? Volunteering in Nappanee is where to start. There are plenty of ways in and plenty of people who need the help.

One good way in is the Nappanee Center. This community center runs programs and events through the year and always needs volunteers. Whether you want to teach a class, help with a fundraiser or simply keep the day-to-day going, the Nappanee Center has a place for you.

If animals are your thing, look at volunteering with the Nappanee Street Department. They always need people to help care for the animals at the city’s animal shelter. That covers everything from feeding and walking to cleaning the cages and giving the animals the attention they are short of.

If you would rather be outdoors, the Nappanee Parks and Recreation Department runs volunteer work of its own. That covers everything from maintaining the city’s parks and trails to helping with special events and programs.

Whatever you are good at, there is a volunteer opportunity in Nappanee that fits it. So give it a try. You help, and you meet people you would never otherwise have met.

Stay Safe in Nappanee

Nappanee is a safe town, and it still pays to be ready for whatever comes. Here is what to know before you go.

Crisis Resources

In case of an emergency, Nappanee has several resources available to help you. If you need immediate assistance, call 911. For non-emergency situations, you can contact the Nappanee Police Department at 574-773-4111.

If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, there are resources available to help you. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

Severe Weather Information

Nappanee sits in the Midwest, which means all four seasons arrive properly. Summer runs hot and humid, while winter brings cold and snow.

If severe weather is forecast, be ready for it. Here is how to stay safe when it arrives:

• Tornadoes: If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately. The safest place to be is in a basement or interior room on the lowest level of a building. If you’re outside, seek shelter in a sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area.
• Thunderstorms: If you hear thunder, seek shelter immediately. Avoid tall trees, metal objects, and bodies of water. If you’re driving, pull over and wait for the storm to pass.
• Winter Weather: If you’re driving in winter weather, slow down and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles. Make sure your car is equipped with snow tires or chains, and keep an emergency kit in your car in case you get stranded.

Being ready costs you nothing. Follow these and you get the trip to Nappanee without the part you would rather not remember.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-visit Amish restaurants in Nappanee?

If you want Amish cooking, take Amish Acres Restaurant Barn. They serve family-style meals that end the argument about lunch. The other one is the Dutch Kitchen Restaurant, which does home cooking in a room you settle into.

Are there any quirky and offbeat attractions in Nappanee?

Yes. Take the Nappanee Center, which runs exhibits on the town’s history and culture, including a serious display on the local Amish community. And do not miss Dutch Lady Antiques, where the stock is never the same twice.

What are the top-rated flea markets in and around Nappanee?

If flea markets are your subject, take the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market, a short drive from Nappanee. It is one of the largest in the Midwest and runs everything from antiques to handmade work. Closer in, the Nappanee Trading Post is where you find things worth more than the price on them.

Can you recommend any unique experiences in Elkhart or Goshen?

Absolutely. In Elkhart, take the RV/MH Hall of Fame, which covers the history of recreational vehicles and manufactured homes. And in Goshen, take the Ignition Music Garage, a music venue and record store running live shows and selling vinyl.

What’s the story behind The Barns at Nappanee?

The Barns at Nappanee is an events space created by the Coppes family, who ran a large factory in town making kitchen cabinets. That factory eventually became the shopping and dining destination now called Coppes Commons, and The Barns were added as a venue for weddings, concerts and everything else.

Why is Nappanee considered a hidden gem in Indiana?

For a start, it holds a working Amish community that shows you a simpler way of living rather than describing one. Beyond that, Nappanee runs independent shops, good restaurants and attractions you will not find repeated. Plus it sits a short drive from Elkhart and Goshen. So if you want a trip that is not the obvious one, put Nappanee on the list.

Frequently asked questions about Nappanee, Indiana

Is Coppes Commons worth a whole morning with the family?

Yes, easily so. It runs over 60 shops and businesses inside the old factory, which means antiques, handmade work and food are all under one roof and out of the weather. The floors are flat and a stroller will move through it perfectly fine. There is food inside as well, so nobody has to leave hungry. Save it for a wet day, because the whole of it is indoors.

Is the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail manageable with young children along?

Yes, in sections. The trail runs 25 miles in total through forest, fields and wetland, so you take the stretch nearest the town and turn back when they have had enough. It is flat and surfaced throughout, which suits small bikes very well. There is wildlife along it if you walk the thing quietly enough. Take water with you, because there is nothing to buy once you are on it.

Is the Nappanee Raceway a good evening out with kids?

Yes, genuinely good. It runs harness races from May through October, and children under ten get in for nothing, which makes it the cheapest family evening on this whole page. The season is short, so the dates matter rather more than usual. Bring something warm with you, because those evenings cool off fast. Check the card before you drive out, because it does not run every night.

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